None such exists on the open llano, where this Apache band is now; and they might move in a column or extended line, if willing it; but numbering scant two hundred, they prefer the double file. Unlike the miners, in their three days' traverse of a waterless desert, they have been making way through a district with which they are familiar; acquainted with all the camping-places--every stream, spring, and pond-- so they have not suffered from want of water. Nor are they likely now, since their course lies along the banks of a creek--a tiny rivulet, yet running, despite the continued drought. It is a branch of the Rio San Miguel of the maps--locally known as the Horcasitas--and they are descending it southward, thirst having no terrors for them.

Just as the sun is about to set they catch sight of the Cerro Perdido. To them it is not known by that name, but Nauchampa-tepetl. Somewhat strange this, pointing to an affinity known to exist between the Indians of Northern Mexico a